Maple Bourbon Bread Pudding: A Cozy, Indulgent Dessert

This Maple Bourbon Bread Pudding is the ultimate comfort dessert, combining the warmth of bourbon with the rich sweetness of maple syrup. Soft cubes of bread soak up a creamy custard mixture flavored with vanilla and cinnamon, then bake to golden perfection, creating a dessert that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. The addition of bourbon adds depth, making this a dessert fit for special occasions, cozy gatherings, or any time you crave something warm and indulgent.

Each bite offers the rich flavors of maple and vanilla with a subtle hint of bourbon, complemented by a crisp, caramelized top. Served with a drizzle of maple-bourbon sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, this bread pudding will become an instant favorite at your table!

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Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Day-old bread (French or brioche)	8 cups, cubed
Large eggs	4, room temperature
Whole milk	2 cups
Heavy cream	1 cup
Maple syrup	1/2 cup
Brown sugar	1/4 cup, packed
Bourbon	1/4 cup
Vanilla extract	1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/4 teaspoon

Maple Bourbon Sauce:

Ingredient	Quantity
Maple syrup	1/4 cup
Bourbon	2 tablespoons
Unsalted butter	2 tablespoons
Heavy cream	1/4 cup
Pinch of salt	optional

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Equipment Needed

• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls (one large, one medium)
• Whisk
• Saucepan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Custard

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Place the cubed bread in the baking dish in an even layer. If using a dense bread like brioche, it’s best to let the bread sit uncovered for a day to dry slightly for better absorption.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, bourbon, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.

Step 2: Assemble the Bread Pudding

1. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked in the custard.
2. Allow the bread to soak for at least 15 minutes, pressing down occasionally with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid fully.

Step 3: Bake the Bread Pudding

1. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
2. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The center should be slightly puffed and no longer jiggly.
3. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

Step 4: Make the Maple Bourbon Sauce

1. While the bread pudding is cooling, make the sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the maple syrup, bourbon, butter, and cream.
2. Stir continuously until the butter is melted and the sauce begins to thicken, about 3-4 minutes. If you’d like a touch of saltiness, add a pinch of salt.
3. Remove from heat and allow to cool slightly. The sauce will thicken as it cools.

Step 5: Serve

1. Drizzle the maple bourbon sauce over the warm bread pudding, or serve the sauce on the side. For an extra decadent touch, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

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Tips and Variations

• Best Bread Choices: Day-old French bread or brioche works wonderfully for bread pudding. Brioche will yield a richer, softer texture, while French bread gives a slightly sturdier texture.
• Make it Nutty: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the custard mixture for extra texture and flavor.
• Alcohol-Free Option: If you prefer a non-alcoholic version, omit the bourbon and add 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract instead. You can also replace the bourbon in the sauce with apple juice or additional maple syrup.
• Extra Spices: For added warmth, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the custard.

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Serving Suggestions

Maple Bourbon Bread Pudding is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it even further with a few accompaniments. For a classic touch, serve each portion with a drizzle of the warm maple bourbon sauce, which enhances the dessert’s rich flavors. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream adds a cool contrast to the warm, soft texture of the pudding.

If you’re serving this bread pudding at a festive gathering, try garnishing it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few toasted pecans. You can also pair it with fresh fruit, like sliced strawberries or a handful of berries, to add a touch of brightness.

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Pairings

The warmth and richness of this bread pudding pair beautifully with cozy drinks. Serve it with a hot cup of coffee or espresso for a classic pairing, or try a glass of spiced chai tea, which complements the cinnamon and maple flavors.

For a special after-dinner treat, consider serving this dessert with a glass of bourbon or an Old Fashioned cocktail to echo the bourbon notes in the pudding. A Tawny Port or a slightly sweet dessert wine also works well, enhancing the maple and caramel flavors in every bite.

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Storage and Reheating

To store leftovers, cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, or cover the entire dish with foil and warm it in a 325°F (160°C) oven for about 10-15 minutes.

If you plan to store it for longer, freeze the bread pudding by wrapping individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and storing them in a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as described above.

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Nutritional Information

Per Serving (based on 10 servings):

• Calories: 420 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Protein: 7g
• Allergens: Contains dairy and gluten.

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.

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Conclusion

Maple Bourbon Bread Pudding is a decadent dessert that captures the essence of comfort in every bite. Its warm, gooey texture and rich flavors make it perfect for cozy nights, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want to indulge in something special. This recipe is easy to make and wonderfully satisfying, especially when served with a drizzle of maple bourbon sauce or a scoop of ice cream. Give it a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious dessert!

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